Immaculate Conception Church, School, Rectory, and - View this location on map Founded in 1864, Immaculate Conception was the first mission church of Saint Patrick s, organized to serve the Roman Catholic population in the sparsely settled area north of Mount Vernon Square, including parts of Washington County beyond. Its establishment reflects the growth of the Irish immigrant population in the capital, and presages the rapid postwar expansion of the city north of Massachusetts Avenue. The four architecturally related buildings typify the urban Catholic model, with the church as a centerpiece surrounded by buildings for education and religious orders. The group is a fine example of Gothic Revival and related ecclesiastical architecture, and is associated with notable pastors including its founder, Rev. J. Walter, who was the confessor and defender of Mary Surratt after Lincoln s assassination. 1315 8th Street, NW, Washington , DC Historical

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